KS3 EAL Placement ÌÇÐÄVlogt: Reading & Writing Assessment for New Arrivals (Ages 11–13)
This practical, easy-to-administer assessment has been uniquely designed for EAL students entering UK secondary schools during KS3. It provides a quick yet meaningful snapshot of a learner’s reading and writing ability, helping schools identify whether the student requires language support or broader academic intervention.
Unlike most assessments used with new arrivals often adapted from primary or adult ESOL materials, this resource is age-appropriate, culturally neutral, and specifically targeted at KS3 learners.

Why This Resource Stands Out
• Designed for 11–13-year-old new arrivals
• Immediate diagnostic value – ideal for use on Day 1 or during induction
• Goes beyond multiple choice to include creative writing, grammar spotting, and vocabulary tasks
• Includes a clear, robust marking rubric for easy interpretation
• Encourages independent, unaided responses – essential for true ability assessment

** What’s Inside**
• A short, culturally neutral reading text with comprehension and language questions
• Vocabulary and grammar activities (including synonyms, antonyms, and gap-fill)
• A free writing task based on a visual prompt, designed to reveal writing fluency
• A detailed marking scheme covering both reading and writing (0–10 scale)
• Optional: CEFR level descriptors, and printable score tracker

Who It’s For
This resource is ideal for:
• EAL coordinators and support staff in UK schools
• International schools with English-medium instruction
• SEN and pastoral teams involved in student induction
• Teachers seeking a quick, age-appropriate tool to assess new arrivals

Many EAL students are academically bright, but their abilities can go unrecognised if the right assessment isn’t in place. This resource helps schools see the learner behind the language barrier.
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